Meet Dr. Cohen

Steven Cohen grew up on the east coast, where he started his medical education at SUNY at Brooklyn Downstate Medical Center and attended his residency at New York Medical College. But when his education took him to Los Angeles (and the UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine) he also found a new home. “After growing up on the east coast, Los Angeles was a big change — for the better. Aside from the perfect climate and year round golf, I enjoy the endless possibilities that a place like LA offers. I’m happy to call it home.”

When you talk to Dr. Cohen about his passion for radiology, two things stand out: problem solving and patients. “Radiology is — at its core — about problem solving. Every patient we see has a clinical symptom, and it is our job to figure out the cause of that symptom”, he explains. Since the beginning of his career the radiology department has been the hub of clinical diagnostics: “A Radiologist mentor of mine summed it up by stating, ‘As a Radiologist you will play a role in diagnosing and managing every patient in the hospital.’”

As a teleradiologist that scope only widens.

And when it comes to serving patients, Dr. Cohen is sure to mention serving his referring physician colleagues as well. “Professionally, I’m passionate about the concept of added value in radiology. As radiologists, we must serve our patients and colleagues in a way that enhances and improves care. This doesn’t end with a high quality report. It starts there. But it must include open and frequent communication with referring physicians and reports that are not only accurate, but concise and actionable.”

For the right person, he thinks radiology is a great career, but one to be entered into thoughtfully. “The most important thing a student can learn about radiology before choosing it as a career is to learn about themselves. You need a fairly unique personality and skill set to truly find fulfillment as a radiologist. We rarely ever know our patients, but we have the capability to impact the care of so many.” He also emphasizes that, no matter what career, you need to truly enjoy the day to day activities. “If we only focus on outcomes, even the most glamorous profession or hobby will become routine.” You must also draw meaning from the small victories—not just the big picture.

His final thoughts were simply, “If I’m remembered as someone who cares about others and who made decisions in the best interest of others, I’ve been successful.”